Fashion Design and Product Development
Department Chair: Monica McMurry, M.S.
Fashion Faculty:
Julie Bennett, M.B.A.
Kirsteen Buchanan, M.A.
Maureen
Lowary, B.F.A.
Monica McMurry, M.S.
Mary Ruppert,
M.S.
Fashion is one of America's leading industries. Stephens College
offers excellent fashion programs that prepare students to become
professionals in the industry. In addition, a major in fashion at
Stephens is further distinguished and enriched by a liberal arts
foundation. Our graduates comprise a group of alumnae
working world-wide. Women studying at Stephens prepare themselves
for a wide variety of positions in fashion design. The Department
of Design and Fashion offers the bachelor of fine arts in fashion
design and product development.
Students at Stephens gain a thorough understanding of the technical
and creative skills necessary for a career in fashion design and
product development. Computerization is incorporated into several
design and illustration courses as computer technology is an integral
part of the fashion industry's future. The program at Stephens includes
guest critics who are actively involved in the industry and requires
an internship in the student's chosen field. Students are encouraged
to participate in one of our study abroad programs either during
the summer or school year.
In addition during the sophomore year, students may elect to develop
a self-initiated major that combines fashion with at least one other
discipline, such as theatre, art or mass media.
Requirements for the B.F.A. Major in Fashion Design and Product Development
The bachelor of fine arts major in fashion design and product development requires the completion of liberal arts requirements and 77 semester hours of FAS classes, including a fashion-related internship. In addition, 9 hours of ART classes and 3 hours of BUS are required. Students must earn a C- or better in all required courses within the bachelor of fine arts in fashion design and product development program. Students may not continue to the next level class until the prerequisite class is passed with a C- or better.
Required Courses
ART 105: Beginning Drawing (3 hrs.)ART 201: Life Drawing (3 hrs.)
ART 203: Painting/Color (3 hrs.)
BUS 250: Marketing (3 hrs.)
FAS 111: Clothing Construction I (3 hrs.)
FAS 170: Survey of the Fashion Industry (3 hrs.)
FAS 192: Introduction to Apparel Manufacturing (3 hrs.)
FAS 201: Product Analysis (3 hrs.)
FAS 203: Textiles (3 hrs.)
FAS 214: Draping and Patternmaking I (5 hrs.)
FAS 220: Computer-Aided Patternmaking (2 hrs.)
FAS 246: Fashion Drawing (3 hrs.)
FAS 248: Advanced Fashion Drawing and Illustration (3 hrs.)
FAS 303: Product Development (3 hrs.)
FAS 310: Fashion Show Production (3 hrs.)
FAS 315: Pre-20th Century Costume (3 hrs.)
FAS 316: Draping and Patternmaking II (5 hrs.)
FAS 320: Computer-Aided Design (3 hrs.)
FAS 325: Advanced Computer Aided Design (2 hrs.)
FAS 330: Sportswear and Dresses (3 hrs.)
FAS 340: Sportswear: Active, Swim and Casual (3 hrs.)
FAS 375: 20th Century Costume (3 hrs.)FAS 394: Pre-Internship Seminar (1 hr.)
FAS 403: Tailored Design: Suits and Outerwear (2 hrs.)
FAS 404: Tailored Design: Suits and Outerwear (2 hrs.)
FAS 405: Senior Collection: Line Development (4 hrs.)
FAS 420: Computer-Aided Manufacturing (2 hrs.)
FAS 466: Senior Collection: Studio (3 hrs.)
FAS 468: Portfolio Development (2 hrs.)
FAS 493: Current Issues in the Global Fashion Industry (3 hrs.)
FAS 496: Post-Internship Seminar (2 hrs.)
Fashion Courses
FAS 105: Fashion Presentation: Modeling
(1 hr.)
(Open to all students; required for first-time Modeling Group members)
A modeling course that benefits anyone interested in good carriage
and an ability to move with assurance and poise. A "performance" class in which students learn runway modeling.
FAS 111: Clothing Construction
(3 hrs.)
(Open to all students; lab fee charged)
A laboratory course in basic clothing construction techniques and
skills. Students learn types of silhouettes and garment details
by completing samples then constructing at least three garments.
Emphasis is placed on developing analytical and critical-thinking
skills.
FAS 170: Survey of the Fashion Industry
(3 hrs.)
(Open to all students)
Survey course that explores careers in the apparel industry. Topics
include: the fashion cycle, production, distribution, marketing
and merchandising fashion to the consumer.
FAS 192: Introduction to Apparel Manufacturing
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 111 with a C-
or better; lab fee charged)
A laboratory course exploring techniques of clothing construction
for mass production. Emphases include sewing on a variety of fabrics,
learning the function and operation of different sewing machines
(including industrial models), costing and quality control. The
operations of an apparel plant are studied from receipt of raw materials
through shipping of finished goods. Students complete samples, then
construct a fully lined jacket and garment of their choice that
fulfill class requirements.
FAS 201: Product Analysis
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 170 with a C-
or better.)
An introductory course to acquaint the fashion student with foundational
skills needed for the product developer. Topics covered will include
the principles and elements of design, color theory, trend and market
research, garment styles and parts, flat and mechanical drawings,
an overview of fabric types and uses, developing a line of garments,
and industry sewing techniques.
FAS 203: Textiles
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 170 with a C-
or better; lab fee charged)
A study of textiles with emphasis on the interrelationships of fibers,
yarn structures, fabric construction and finishes. Application of
this knowledge to an understanding of textile behavior and how the
fabric determines the character, performance and care of a garment.
Students research new fibers and government legislation related
to textiles.
FAS 214: Draping & Patternmaking I
(5 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 192 or permission of instructor; lab fee charged)
Basic principles of draping and flat pattern making: bodice, skirt
and dress. A visual understanding of garments will be provided by
draping muslins and making paper patterns. Original student design
may be critiqued for eligibility to Jury of Selection.
FAS 220: Computer-Aided Patternmaking
(2 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 214; lab fee charged)
Basic principles of computer patternmaking explored through a series
of exercises. The student will develop the problem-solving and technical
skills necessary to develop patterns on the computer.
FAS 230: Pre-Studies Abroad in Fashion
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: completion of one or more courses of the following
prefix(es) with a C- or
better: FAS, HUM, ARH and ART and overall GPA of 3.0 or higher.)
A tour preparation course for the fashion study abroad programs.
Designed to provide the student with a cultural, historical and
practical background that supports an international educational
experience.
FAS 246: Fashion Drawing
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: ART 201, FAS 192; lab fee charged)
Learn the fashion figure's proportions and the effect of different
fabrics on the body by drawing from a live model. Croquis are developed,
as are techniques of rendering floats and mechanical drawings to
illustrate garment details. Fabrics are rendered with a variety
of media. Exercises involve designing women's wear for different
categories of dress including designer and better sportswear.
FAS 248: Advanced Fashion Drawing and Illustration
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 246; lab fee charged)
Focuses on fashion illustration and may include study of proportions
as well as fabrics and designs appropriate for men's and children's
wear. Live models used extensively to gain better understanding
of fashion figures. Exploration of graphic design principles, layout
and different media for advertising, promotion and fashion presentation.
FAS 270: Foundations of Fashion Marketing Management
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 170 with a C-
or better grade)
An introductory course that provides a basic foundation for marketing
today's fashion. Study includes the principles involved in the management
of the functional areas of retail, such as procurement of merchandise,
sales, promotions, merchandising and personnel. Includes an overview
of the analysis and identification of quality garment construction
fashion trends within the industry.
FAS
275: Fashion Communication
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 170, MCO 101, and BUS 250 with a C-
or better grade)
A study of the marketing and promotional strategies used within
the fashion communication field. Students will study the purposes,
procedures, methods and techniques used in various fashion promotional
activities. Special attention will be given to the unique
language of fashion advertising and it's specific applications.
FAS 280: Topics in Fashion
(1-3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: dependent on topic being offered; taught at irregular
intervals; lab fee may be charged)
Courses developed to fit current trends in fashion design, product
development, marketing and management.
FAS 285: Concepts of Retail Control
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 270, BUS 250 and ACC 210 with a C-
or better grade or permission of instructor)
A study of the principles involved in the management of the functional
areas of any retail organization: planning, management, merchandising,
promotion, sales and personnel with special emphasis on merchandise
operation and control functions including the six-month buying plan.
FAS 290: Fashion Tours
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: completion of one FAS course, an overall 2.0 gpa
or higher, or permission of tour instructors)
New York Tour (spring break). Study and research in the New York
fashion market, theatres, museums and more. Fee charged.
FAS 303: Product Development
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: BUS 250 and FAS 203)
Focus on utilizing fashion skills to develop and market branded
lifestyle products. A variety of fashion-related goods are analyzed
from conception to distribution. Domestic and foreign markets are
explored and global trade issues are discussed. Group projects involve
role playing and problem solving.
FAS 310: Fashion Show Production and Coordination
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 170, with a C-
or better, BUS 250 and junior standing)
The examination of fashion promotion includes faculty lectures and
student projects. A detailed study of the processes involved with
staging a successful fashion show. Knowledge applied to production
of several events and the annual spring fashion show.
FAS 314: Fashion Industry Strategies and Decision Making
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: BUS 250, FAS 285 or FAS 303 with a C-
or better grade and junior standing)
A course designed to interpret fashion marketing and management
principles through the case analysis method. Students encouraged
to analyze and develop alternative courses of action for a variety
of situations. Includes discussion of moral and ethical issues in
the fashion industry.
FAS 315: Pre-20th Century Costume
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: LBA 108 or equivalent course, and FAS 170 for fashion
majors.)
A study of social history and the resulting costumes worn by men,
women and children from primitive times through the 1800s. Emphasis
on how politics, economics, and technology affect the changing silhouettes
of each period. Writing intensive.
FAS 316: Draping & Patternmaking II
(5 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 214, FAS 203 and FAS 246 with a C-
or better or concurrent enrollment; lab fee charged)
Students strengthen and broaden draping and patternmaking skills
by applying acquired techniques to a wide variety of garment silhouettes.
Tailored, loose-fitting and bias-cut garments will be studied. Original
student design may be critiqued for eligibility to Jury of Design.
FAS 320: Computer-Aided Design
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 248 with a C-
or better and computer proficiency; lab fee charged)
Using various Macintosh and PC-based programs, students learn to
create mechanicals, scan and manipulate fabrics and visuals, and
design textiles.
FAS 325: Advanced Computer Aided Design
(2 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 320 with a C-
or better; lab fee charged.)
Computer course in which students utilize Lectra U4ia to create
textile designs. Students will also be exposed to texture mapping
and storyboards. Color modes, color matching and printing considerations
will be discussed. Class time divided between instructor demonstrations,
student exercises and arranged laboratory time for independent work.
FAS 330: Career Sportswear and Dresses
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 248 and FAS 340 with a C-
or better; lab fee charged)
Better sportswear and dress class in which students develop a portfolio
of original designs, which are critiqued by a professional designer.
Two ensembles are constructed by the student, using a variety of
fabrics. Manual pattern grading, markers, cutters musts, spec sheets,
and costing follow the design work.
FAS 340: Sportswear: Active, Swim and Casual
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 316 with a C-
or better; lab fee charged)
Students develop a portfolio of original designs, including designs
necessitating two- and four-way stretch fabrics. A professional
designer critiques work, and the student constructs three ensembles.
FAS 375: 20th Century Costume
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: LBA 108 or equivalent course, and FAS 170 for fashion
majors.)
Focus on the impact of cultural, political and social changes in
20th century. Explores fashion and the psychology of dress in culturally
diverse settings. Final research project includes in-depth study
of history of dress using an assigned methodological approach. Writing
intensive.
FAS 380: Topics in Fashion
(1-3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: dependent upon topic being offered; lab fee may be
charged)
Taught at irregular intervals. Includes courses developed to fit
current trends in fashion design, marketing and management. Topics
may include: children's wear; men's wear; large sizes; eveningwear;
advanced illustration; knitwear design; visual merchandising; ethnic
costume and wholesale distribution.
FAS
385: Visual Merchandising and Display
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 170 and FAS 275 with a C-
or better.)
The study of display techniques and visual merchandising employed
by the fashion industry. This course will examine the tools,
techniques, principles and elements of display that sell merchandise.
An important component of this course will be "hands-on"
activities. Individual creativity will be strongly encouraged.
FAS 390: Fashion Study Abroad Summer Tour
(1-3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 170 and cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.)
Overseas study tour with emphasis on the international fashion industry.
Previous tours have been to France and Italy.
FAS 394: Pre-Internship Seminar
(1 hr.)
(Prerequisites: completion of at least three upper-level courses
in fashion; junior or senior standing; or permission of instructor.)
Course to prepare students for the internship experience and the
job search. Seminar topics include: networking; constructing a letter
of application and résumé; and interviewing and applying
internship requirements to specific employers. Students must plan
to complete 140 hours of substantive work at an approved fashion-oriented
firm.
FAS 401: Applied Fashion Marketing Management Project
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 285, FAS 314 and ACC 220 with a C-
or better and senior standing)
This in-depth capstone course for the F.M.M. degree is designed
to give students the opportunity to integrate the various functional
areas of the industry into one retail organization. This could include
resource and merchandise planning, financial and organizational
development, marketing and promotion planning into a viable and
cogent merchandising unit.
FAS 403/404: Tailored Design: Suits and Outerwear
(4 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 330 or concurrent enrollment with a C-
or better; lab fee charged)
Students develop portfolio of original designs of suits and coats
appropriate for the bridge/designer market. A professional designer
selects designs for construction. Students will use a combination
of couture and industrial tailoring techniques.
FAS 405: Senior Collection: Design Research and Line Development
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 330 with a C-
or better and senior standing; lab fee charged)
Students choose a garment classification and target market, then
conduct research through interviews with vendors, buyers and consumers.
After designing a collection appropriate for the chosen market,
a student creates production and merchandising plans to complete
the product development process. A portfolio of the student's original
designs is critiqued by a professional designer who selects a collection
of three or more complete ensembles for the student to construct
in FAS 466.
FAS 420: Computer-Aided Manufacturing
(2 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 220 and FAS 466 with a C-
or better; lab fee charged)
Creation and manipulation of patterns using apparel industry-specific
computer software. Includes digitizing, pattern grading and marker
making. Technical design and production information is generated.
Class time divided between instructor demonstrations, student exercises
and arranged laboratory time for independent work.
FAS 466: Senior Collection Studio
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 405 with a C-
or better; lab fee charged)
During an intense seven weeks, a student produces a senior collection
as chosen in FAS 405. A minimum of three complete ensembles must
be constructed. In this capstone course, a student must evaluate
her work and make a formal presentation before the Jury of Selection.
FAS 468: Portfolio Development
(2 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: FAS 466 with a C-
or better; lab fee charged)
Emphasis on finished work of original designs for the final portfolio,
which include a résumé and letter of application. May
be critiqued by a fashion industry professional at formal presentation.
FAS 480: Topics in Fashion
(1-3 hrs.)
(Prerequisite: dependent upon topic being offered)
Previous topic offered: retail entrepreneurship.
FAS 493: Current Issues in the Global Fashion Industry
(3 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 303 with C-
or better and junior or senior standing)
Research and analysis of current issues in fashion design, product
development, manufacturing and merchandising for both foreign and
domestic markets. Final project involves study of fashion in another
country.
FAS 494: Internship
(2 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 394, senior status and/or permission of the
department)
Students must complete 140 hours of substantive work in an approved
internship with a fashion-oriented firm and complete an internship
portfolio.
FAS 496: Post-Internship Seminar
(2 hrs.)
(Prerequisites: FAS 394, and student must have completed 140 hours
of substantive work at an approved fashion-oriented firm.)
Examination of case studies on the internship experience. A seven-week
course in which the student reflects on her personal internship
experience and shares the internship experiences of fellow learners.
Emphasis is placed on the student's assessment of her own work performance,
the employment environment and the internship employer. Critical
thinking through effective problem solving is encouraged through
the analysis and development of case studies based on the internship
experience. Additionally, moral and ethical issues confronted in
the work environment are examined. The student will explore post-graduation
opportunities for employment that build on her internship experience.
Independent Study
Independent studies (special studies, tutorials,
readings, projects) may be proposed to the fashion faculty by a
student who wishes to investigate a subject not otherwise available.
All independent studies are subject to the approval of the design
and fashion faculty. Information about independent study may
be obtained in department offices or in the Office of the Registrar.
